Imperial Hotel Erskineville added to heritage register for LGBTQIA+ significance
One of Sydney’s most iconic LGBTQIA+ venues has been added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register in recognition of its cultural and historical importance.
The Imperial Hotel in Erskineville has operated as a hotel since 1881 and served for decades as a traditional “working man’s” pub. Its transformation into a landmark LGBTQIA+ space began in 1983 when entrepreneur Dawn O’Donnell acquired the property.
“O’Donnell was a well-known member of the LGBTQIA+ community from the 1960s,” the NSW State Heritage Register listing explains.
“[She] established and ran some of Sydney’s best known and most iconic gay and lesbian venues during the period when homosexuality was still illegal in the state.”
As New South Wales began reforming laws that criminalised homosexuality in the mid-1980s, the Imperial Hotel emerged as a safe and inclusive gathering place. Today, it is the longest-running LGBTQIA+ venue in Sydney outside of Oxford Street.
The venue gained global attention in 1994 when scenes from The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert were filmed there. A drag show inspired by the film continues to be staged every Saturday night.
New South Wales Heritage Minister Penny Sharpe said, “The Imperial Hotel has been at the heart of Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ community for decades, fostering a spirit of inclusivity, creativity and celebration.
“Heritage is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about the stories, communities and movements that shape our society.”
Federal Sydney MP Tanya Plibersek added, “It holds the memories of generations in our community who have gathered there together and continues to be a safe space for many – particularly the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Richie Haines, CEO of Universal Hotels, said the group are “proud custodians” of the site, acknowledging its ongoing legacy.
Jonathan Jackson, 7th April 2025
